Technology has played a significant role in revolutionizing orthodontics in recent years. One such technological advancement is orthodontic digital workflows, which have transformed how we plan, execute and monitor orthodontic treatment. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a workflow is, what digital workflows mean for orthodontics, and how they impact our profession.
What is a Workflow?
A workflow is a series of steps or tasks to achieve a specific outcome. Workflows are used in various fields, including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, to streamline processes and increase efficiency. In orthodontics, workflows guide the treatment process, from the initial consultation to the final results and everything in between.
What Does Digital Workflow Mean?
A digital workflow, as the name suggests, refers to a workflow that is entirely digital. This means that it relies on digital instruments and technology to carry out the tasks. In orthodontics, a digital workflow involves using digital tools such as scanners, software, mobile apps, and 3D printing to plan, execute, and monitor orthodontic treatment.
How is Digital Workflow Impacting Orthodontics?
Digital workflows have significantly impacted orthodontics, revolutionizing how orthodontic treatment is planned and executed. Here are some ways that digital workflows are impacting the field of orthodontics:
- Improved accuracy: Digital workflows allow orthodontists to aggregate digital records. This includes highly accurate digital models, CBCT images, and photographs of patients. Ultimately enabling us to plan treatment more precisely.
- Faster treatment times: Effective digital workflows allow orthodontists to design, fabricate and deploy customized appliances more quickly. Digital planning proactively approaches treatment design by creating custom appliances that reduce treatment times, reduce office visits, and increase patient satisfaction.
- Improved patient communication: Digital workflows allow orthodontists to show patients what their treatment will look like before it begins. Doing this helps them better understand the process and manage their expectations. We can simulate outcomes. We can create visual treatment objectives to educate patients during the process, and we can use applications to monitor treatment progress with more frequency and greater opportunities to communicate.
- Increased efficiency: Digital workflows streamline the treatment process, reducing the time and resources required to plan and execute the treatment. Digital appliances have the opportunity to reduce treatment times and reduce the number of visits.
- Reduced environmental impact: Digital workflows eliminate the need for traditional plaster models, paper, x-ray solutions, and film that used to be a large result in years of practice. Reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable orthodontic practice.
Conclusion
Orthodontic digital workflows have transformed the field of orthodontics. Additionally, they offer improved accuracy, faster treatment times, and increased efficiency. As technology advances, we can expect digital workflows to play an even more significant role in orthodontic treatment, offering more benefits for patients and orthodontists.
